Survivor Spotlight

“Rose’s” Story

For much of her life, “Rose” (a recent survivor at Jamie’s House) lived what many would call the perfect life. She was married to the love of her life, raised three amazing children, and had built a warm, comfortable home filled with laughter and love. But everything changed when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. After a long, difficult battle, he passed away, leaving Rose to navigate her grief while trying to stay strong for her children. During that vulnerable time, Rose found herself feeling lost and hopeless—grappling with overwhelming uncertainty and struggling to find her footing as the life she once knew faded further from reach.

Before long, she met someone new—a man who seemed to bring light back into her life. He was attentive, charismatic, and said all the things she had longed to hear. After everything she’d been through, she never expected to feel love again, and was surprised by how quickly their connection deepened. Looking back, Rose admits there were warning signs she didn’t recognize at the time. His jealousy, once mistaken for affection, turned into control. He dictated what she wore, questioned who she spoke to, and gradually isolated her from her loved ones. The first time he hit her, Rose was in shock. He cried afterward, and she actually felt sorry for him—felt that she had somehow pushed him too far. As the violence escalated, the cycle of abuse became her new normal. The apologies always came, and for a time, they felt like love.

Her adult children began to notice something was “off”, the frequent cancellations, and the growing distance. Slowly, Rose started to see it too—the life she was living was no life at all. The final assault was the most terrifying moment of her life. After finding apartment searches on her phone, her abuser snapped. He held a metal spatula to her throat so tightly it broke the skin. In that moment, she knew: if she didn’t escape, she wouldn’t survive. Rose fought back, stomping on his foot and running as fast as she could to a neighbor’s house, where she called the police.

That call changed everything. The officers gave her the number for Hope & Safety Alliance, and Rose soon found safety and shelter at Jamie’s House. There, her healing journey began. Despite the trauma she carried, Rose brought light and warmth to those around her—cooking meals, offering words of encouragement, and reminding others that hope is always possible. She faced setbacks with courage and never lost sight of her goals. Today, she has reconnected with her children and has finally moved into permanent housing! We are proud to celebrate Rose as a true survivor, and we wish her all the joy and peace this new chapter brings.

If you or someone you know needs help, call our 24-hour crisis and support line today 541-485-6513